Towson Collaborative Law Lawyer
If you are getting a divorce, have a child custody issue, or another dispute, you may be envisioning a long and bitter courtroom battle. Fortunately, there are many ways to resolve these issues today and they do not all require going through litigation. Taking a family law matter to trial is one of the costliest and most time-consuming ways to settle disputes. Collaborative law is one such way to resolve family law issues. It is critical to work with a Towson collaborative law lawyer who can represent you throughout the process.
What is Collaborative Law?
Collaborative law is a form of alternative dispute resolution that allows you to resolve your disputes outside of the courtroom. During collaborative sessions, you and the other party will meet together, along with your respective lawyers. The attorneys for both sides will negotiate for a settlement that is fair to all sides. Certain experts are also sometimes involved in the process. Childcare experts, vocational professionals, and others are just a few types of experts that are often part of the collaborative process.
It is important to note that collaborative law is results-driven. The purpose is to allow disputing parties to resolve their issues in a timely manner that does not require a judge to oversee proceedings. Due to the fact that all parties should be focused on getting results, the American Bar Association prohibits attorneys from representing the same client if collaboration does not work and the parties enter litigation.
Collaborative Law vs. Mediation
Many people mistake collaborative law for mediation. Mediation is also a form of alternative dispute resolution, but it differs vastly from collaborative law. During mediation, a third party mediator meets with the opposing parties. The mediator does not provide legal advice. Their only role is to foster compromise and communication so the two sides can reach an agreement. Lawyers are not always present during mediation sessions, but it is still advised that individuals going through it meet with an attorney separately to ensure their rights are being upheld.
Collaborative law does not involve the use of mediators. However, collaborative law lawyers often have training similar to that of mediators. Although mediation may also rely on certain experts, the use of these professionals is more common in collaborative law than during mediation. Lastly, another difference between mediation and collaborative law is the role of the lawyers representing each side. While collaborative law lawyers cannot represent their client further if collaboration is unsuccessful, this is not the case with mediation.
Our Collaborative Law Lawyer in Towson Can Help You Through the Process
If you have a family law dispute, collaborative law can help you avoid the complexities of litigation while also reaching a fair agreement with the other side. At Lebovitz Law, our Towson collaborative law lawyer can help you navigate the process and negotiate with the other side to give you the best chance of an outcome that is favorable to you. Call us now at (410) 657-6494 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to learn more.
